Postnatal Hemorrhoids
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Lisa
Posted on: September 24, 2000

After I had my second child I got a bad case of hemorrhoids from pushing for so hard and long, because the cord was wrapped around my son’s neck. It has been five years and I always have one small one there, but after a case of loose stools I get them really bad. Drugstore ointments just don’t do the trick. Do you have any suggestions?

Hemorrhoids are varicose veins occurring in the anus. The veins in the anal area have become distended. Guidelines for improving the integrity of the veins are:

The diet should be high in whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables, and include good quality protein. Foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruit, green peppers, dark green leafy vegetables help to nourish the blood vessels.

Exercise is important in improving the circulation. Poor circulation is the main cause of hemorrhoids. A half hour daily of brisk walking, swimming or dancing increases the blood circulation rate, reducing congestion in the blood vessels. Avoid sitting for more than an hour at a time. Take at least 10 minutes every hour to walk around, encouraging blood flow to the pelvic area.

If you tend towards constipation, tend to this first by ensuring a high fibre diet. Other recommendations for constipation can be found on our website at http://www.richters.com. Choose "Q&A" from the main menu, then choose "Search Richters Q&A", and enter the word "constipation" for the search.

Rutin is a bioflavonoid specifically useful for healing and preventing varicose veins and hemorrhoids. You can take up to 2000 mg supplement of vitamin C with rutin.

Vitamin E is helpful for the circulatory system. The usual dosage is 400 i.u. daily. Check with your health care provider before taking vitamin E if you have blood pressure or heart problems.

Other supplements that may be required, if they not provided by your diet, are: vitamin B complex (available in whole grains) and Essential fatty acids (available in fish, nuts and seeds) such as Evening Primrose Oil or freshly ground flax seed.

Externally, soak a cloth in Witch Hazel extract, available at a pharmacy. Wring out the cloth and lay on the area for 20 minutes, two or three times a day. Never massage varicose veins. Witch Hazel is a strong astringent, which helps to tone up the distended veins.

Internally, Nettle tea is helpful for circulation and blood vessels. Steep one ounce of dried stinging nettle herb in 4 cups of water for 2 hours. The long steeping time is needed to extract the minerals from the nettles. Drink four cups daily.

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